In a moving interview on Good Morning Britain, the parents of Bebe King and Elsie Dot Stancombe shared their heartbreak, their hopes for change, and their unwavering commitment to ensuring their daughters’ legacies bring about meaningful reform.
Seeking Answers Through a Public Inquiry
The families have welcomed plans for a public inquiry into the events leading up to the tragic loss of their daughters. They believe that holding those responsible to account is important, not only to honour Bebe and Elsie but to protect other children in the future.
As Elsie’s parents poignantly stated, “Our girls just need to be safe. Our children just need to be safer.”
Sara Stanger, Head of Serious Injuries and Public Inquiries at Bond Turner, stressed the importance of the families’ involvement in what is examined in the public inquiry and emphasised the need to ensure the inquiry addresses key issues such as online safety. She highlighted the shocking ease with which the offender accessed harmful content online, stressing that “online safety should be paramount to this inquiry.”
A System That Failed to Protect
Beyond online safety, the families also called for scrutiny of the anti-terror Prevent scheme. Despite multiple warnings, the offender was not stopped. “He had been flagged up so many times, and because he didn’t meet certain criteria, nothing was done.” Elsie’s parents questioned.
The families are determined that this tragic oversight will lead to reform. They want the inquiry to ensure future cases are handled with greater urgency and effectiveness.
Honouring Bebe and Elsie’s Legacy
Though grief-stricken, the parents are finding strength in keeping their daughters’ spirits alive. They have set up a charity, Elsie’s Story, in the hope that their loss can bring about positive change. “So many times we’ve said we’ll never feel true happiness again. But we might just feel a little bit of something when we make another child smile for Elsie.”
Elsie and Bebe were bright, loving children. Elsie—a devoted Swiftie, cheerleader, and fashionista. Bebe—a lover of musicals, Barbies, and reading. They should be remembered for the joy they brought to those around them, not for the tragedy that took them too soon.
Supporting the Families on Their Journey
At Bond Turner, we are proud to stand alongside these courageous families as they seek justice. Their resilience in the face of unimaginable loss is inspiring, and we will continue to support them in their fight for answers, accountability, and change.
The public inquiry is a critical step forward, and we urge those in positions of power to listen.